Difficulty: Easy

Average Score: 85%

One of the best ways to understand a group of people is to know what makes them laugh. Laughter encompasses the limits of the soul and serves social, psychological, and physiological functions. In humor, life is redefined and accepted. Irony and satire provide much keener insights into a group's collective psyche and values than do years of research. It has always been a great disappointment to Native Americans that the humorous side of their life has not been mentioned by experts on native American affairs. Rather, the image of the stern-faced redskin has been presented by the American Westerns.

What was the author's reason for writing?

Rationale

Persuade people to take a broader view on Native Americans.

The author aims to challenge prevailing stereotypes and misconceptions about Native Americans by highlighting the importance of humor in understanding their culture. By emphasizing laughter and its role, the author seeks to encourage readers to appreciate the complexities of Native American life beyond the simplistic and often negative portrayals.

A (Inform readers about Native American history) YOUR ANSWER

While the text touches on aspects of Native American culture, it does not primarily focus on providing historical information. Instead, the emphasis is on understanding contemporary perceptions and the cultural significance of humor, which is not synonymous with a historical account.

B (Entertain with stories of Native American humor) YOUR ANSWER

The author mentions humor as a lens through which to understand Native American culture, but the primary intent is not to entertain. Rather, the aim is to promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of Native American perspectives, which transcends mere entertainment.

C (Persuade people to take a broader view on Native Americans) CORRECT

This aligns perfectly with the author's intent, as they highlight the need to move beyond one-dimensional portrayals. By showcasing how humor reflects the deeper values and psyche of Native Americans, the author effectively advocates for a broader and more nuanced view of their culture.

D (Criticize misconceptions about Native American culture) YOUR ANSWER

While the author does critique the stereotypes surrounding Native Americans, the broader aim is not just criticism but to foster understanding through humor. This choice is too narrow as it fails to encompass the author’s desire to persuade readers to adopt a more comprehensive perspective.

Conclusion

The author’s primary reason for writing is to encourage a more nuanced view of Native Americans by showcasing the significance of humor in their culture. By highlighting how laughter can reveal deeper insights into societal values, the author seeks to challenge stereotypes and enrich readers’ understanding, ultimately promoting empathy and appreciation for Native American life.

Related Questions

View all